This week’s topic revolves around the artistic side of
neuroscience. Neuroscience is a complex field of science in that it involves
the study of an intricate and elaborate web of neurons in the nervous system.
Therein lies the beauty of neuroscience. An example of art in neuroscience, as
was brought up by Professor Vesna, is the use of different fluorescent markers
on nerve cells such as in a brainbow.
 |
| Brainbow |
The purpose of brainbows is to
distinguish neighboring neurons by using red, green, and blue fluorescent
protein to tag each individual neuron in order to study the neural connections
in the brain (Wikipedia). Brainbows are aesthetically pleasing, with their
multitude of bright colors. This can be considered art on a superficial level.
However, I see brainbows as art because it depicts the intricacies of the
nervous system. The beauty of the nervous system is that it is made up of about
100 million neurons in the brain alone (Huang). These neurons form intricate
patterns to transmit signals from the sensory neurons to the brain, allowing us
to perceive our senses (Harrub).
 |
| Painting of neurons by Greg Dunn |
It is astounding how all of these neurons play
an important role in allowing organisms to function and communicate with their
environment. The brain itself is an important organ in the context of art in
that the brain is what perceives art and interprets art (Hyman). Our brains are
what allow each individual to interpret the same piece of art in different
manners that are unique to us.
 |
| Complexity of the Brain |
Therefore, the study of the brain and nervous
system and art go hand in hand. Thus, to me, the connection between
neuroscience and art lies in the complexity of the nervous system, the brain
especially.
Citations
“Brainbow.” Wikipedia.
Wikipedia Foundation. Web.
Harrub, Brad. “Apologetics Press.” Apologetics Press. 2005. Web.
Huang, Mengfei. “The Neuroscience of Art.” Stanford University. 2009. Web.
Hyman, John. “Art and Neuroscience.” The Queen’s College. 2010. Web.
Vesna, Victoria. “Unit 7: Neuroscience + Art.” 2012.
Lecture.
I liked how you commented on the brainbow's significance as an art piece both for its aesthetic beauty and also its significance and incredible complexity. I would have liked to have seen some more outside research and personal analysis of the subject besides simply the cited facts, though.
ReplyDelete